However, Liverpool are circling and seem willing to trigger his £32.5million release clause.

His agent, Eris Kismet, has told Sky Sports the Belgium international's desire to play Europa League or Champions League football next season - something that plays into Liverpool's hands.

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Christian Benteke scored 12 goals for Aston Villa last season

His current contract expires in two year's time but it is his buy-out clause that most concerns Villa, who failed at the last hurdle to secure European football for next season after losing the FA Cup final to Arsenal on Saturday.

Had Villa won the clash, they may have had a strong hand in negotiating with Benteke's representatives.

Tim Sherwood said of Benteke's situation on Saturday: "There's a buy-out clause in his contract so it will be impossible for us to stop him if he wants to go.

"But someone's got to meet that buy-out clause and if they don't, it won't be considered because we don't want to lose him.

"He's made no indication that he wants to leave. I've not had a conversation with him. I've told you my view on it, I don't think he should be moving clubs before a European Championship."